Which is the best bagel shop in North Jersey? Ahead of National Bagel Day, Jan. 15, more than 1,600 readers weighed in, naming more than 100 shops — from BGL in Nutley to O'Bagel in Hoboken. Many shops, many bagels. However, the bagel shops that received the most love, the ones that our readers declared the absolute best, are the following 10.

No. 1: Wonder Bagels, Jersey City

Wonder Bagels are our readers' top bagels(Photo: Wonder Bagels)

Wonder no more, bagel lovers. The bagel shop that received the most love from our bagel-loving readers is that downtown family-owned Jersey City institution, Wonder Bagels on Jersey Avenue. (There are six other locations, including two in Bayonne, but the Jersey Avenue spot is the most popular; for proof: see its long lines.) It's teeny — no tables, just a counter with eight seats — but it's a huge success.

What's the shop's secret for success? "There is no secret," said owner Issa Salloum. "Anyone who starts working every morning at three o'clock for at least 10 years will be successful. I guarantee it."

Some of what our readers had to say: "The best! Perfect bagel every time." "Best Taylor ham, cheese and egg sandwich in Jersey. Not just North!" "Don't want a bagel if it ain't from them!

No. 3: Plaza Bagel and Deli, Clifton

Plaza Bagel and Deli is affectionately referred to as Punk Rock Bagel Shop, because of the punk rock pictures and memorabilia all over the walls. This shop has been in the bagel business for more than 30 years. Among the classic choices like poppy seed, sesame seed and everything are more unique options like Asiago, jalapeno cheddar, Oreo and more. Its spreads are also creative; for example, the shop recently put out a buffalo ranch cream cheese.

“Thirty years and going stronger than ever,” wrote in one fan. “Old-time water bagels baked continuously all day every day! Great bagels, great sandwiches, great people!”

Go: 850 Van Houten Ave., Clifton; 973-777-2094.

No. 4: Boxcar Bagel & Deli, Bogota

Plain -- and big -- bagels at Boxcar Bagels in Bogota.(Photo: Staff)

What makes Boxcar stand out? Besides great taste, the bagels', ahem, girth; it has been described by some to be “the size of your face” and as big as a “bowling ball.” One reader reported: “The size of a small hubcap and still only a buck.”

No. 5: Bagel Loops, Wayne

Family-owned Bagel Loops has been around since 1993, offering hand-rolled (of course) bagels, deli sandwiches and baked goods. Bagel Loops specializes in creating colorful, seasonal mini bagels. Many bagel shops attempt to add vivid color to their bagels and fall short, creating dull, muddied colors. Bagel Loops, on the other hand, has cracked it — its dyed bagels are bright and beautiful.

“Bagel Loops is in a class all their own,” wrote one devoted fan. “They are the best. I have grown up having Bagel Loops and have never switched! Fresh bagels, great sandwiches, great staff and super fast!”